الهه علی پورجاغرق

Abstract

Various sources report an increase in conflict among the four generations currently present in the workplace, leading to organizational challenges and emerging as one of the fundamental issues in modern human resource management. This study examines the impact of the work values of the new generation (Generation Z) on conflict management styles. The research was conducted using a quantitative approach. It is an applied study in terms of purpose and descriptive-survey in terms of data collection method. The study was carried out at the University of Tehran, Allameh Tabataba'i University, and Mashhad University, with the research population comprising employed students from Generation Z (born in the ۱۹۹۰s and beyond). Data collection was conducted randomly with a sample size of ۳۸۴ participants. The study utilized Rahim’s Conflict Management Styles Questionnaire (۱۹۸۳) and Lyons’ Work Values Questionnaire (۲۰۱۰). The questionnaires were distributed online in student virtual groups and completed accordingly. Data analysis was performed using    and SmartPLS statistical software.

The results indicated that the work values of the new generation have a significant positive impact on conflict management styles. Additionally, work values positively and significantly influence collaboration, accommodation, compromise, and avoidance styles, while they have a negative effect on the competition style. Among these, the strongest effect was observed on the collaboration style, while the weakest was on avoidance. The findings suggest that the most preferred conflict management style among Generation Z is collaboration. A comparison of mean values between male and female participants revealed no significant differences in conflict management styles between the two groups.

Keywords: Work values, Work values of the new generation, Conflict management, Conflict management styles, Generation Z